How to write a *WINNING* Book Proposal

What’s the best way to pitch my book to a Publisher? … The answer is … a *WINNING* book proposal.

More and more publishers are requesting Book Proposals as part of their submission package. A well researched kick-ass book proposal can excite and ignite a publisher.

Where do I find publisher’s submission guidelines?
Check direct on the publisher’s website … Research through the writer’s bible, Australian Writers Marketplace 2011/2012 … Join AWM online for up-to-date information.

How do I research my Book Proposal?

Ask yourself …What’s your story really about? What’s your elevator pitch? How and why are you qualified to write this book? How’s your book unique? What’s your niche market? How does your book compare to competing titles? How’s your book different and better? Why should a publisher publish your book? How does your book benefit anyone? What’s special about the location of the book and where the author lives? How’s your book a perfect fit for this publisher?

What are the components of a Kick-Ass book proposal?

• create a killer cover letter with book jacket blurbs leaving the editor begging for more.
• hook the publisher with an elevator pitch, premise and a powerful synopsis
• explain why you are qualified to write this book …even if you are a first-time author.
• develop a marketing plan with specific target readership and marketing opportunities

Check out publisher, Sally Collings’ article THE PROPOSAL on page 17 of the QWC’s WQ magazine. Sally is running a PROPOSAL WRITING workshop at the State Library, Brisbane on the 19th June which is now SOLD OUT.

ME AND HER :a Memoir of Madness (my triumph over Bipolar) … SAYONARA crime faction … JOSH AND THE IT … JOSH VS LORD TERRA Book 1 & 2 of the Super Space Kids series and now ALANA TO THE RESCUE Book 1 of THE RESCUE KIDS picture book series.

SQUEEEE! This week I developed a kick-ass book proposal to promoteALANA TO THE RESCUE and posted it off to the publishing world … I’m tingling all over with anticipation that this proposal might tip the balance and cause a *WINNING* domino effect.

Today I sent out two more email queries and posted off another Book Proposal. I’m fixated with that YES PLEASE to a query letter I received a few days ago and I can’t stop smiling to myself.

Thanks Susannah, Glad my post was what you needed. So many writers are writing proposals now or thinking about them for the future. The best start is aking yourself those really important questions about your book. Good luck :))

Thanks Renee, This time I spent weeks researching markets and comparative books. I had to do some reflecting on the essence of my book and what was special about it. When we’re writing we’re too absorbed to even think about these questions. Good luck with all your little picture books :))